Rhodes

Things to do in Rhodes

Rhodes attracts holidaymakers with its ancient culture, traditional charm and the kind of expansive beaches that Greece holidays are known for. The coast plays host to lively resorts such as Faliraki and Lindos, while inland there are pine-clad forests, low-lying mountains and pretty villages to explore. Rhodes Town is a cosmopolitan capital full of traditional and modern restaurants, medieval architecture and interesting museums. Rhodes has a range of sand and pebble beaches and is particularly popular with surfers – an international windsurfing tournament runs from the sunshine island each year.

Ancient history

Rhodes has an ancient history for the delight of locals and tourists alike. Before Rhodes Town overtook it thousands of years ago, Lindos was the main trading point of the island. Tourists can see this for themselves at Lindos Acropolis - archaeological remains include a temple, theatre and castle. There is a climb to reach the ruins but the views are spectacular.

Elsewhere in Lindos you can see hints of the Roman, Turkish, Italian and Byzantine rulers who have been through the village's signature black and white pebbled streets.

Further north you can find the Old Town of Rhodes - the oldest inhabited medieval city in Europe. Filled with impressive medieval buildings, water fountains and Byzantine and Gothic churches, visitors can lose themselves in streets with no name. The Palace of Grand Masters of Knights is a must-see and good value for money. Go early or late to avoid the crowds and team it with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, Hospital of the Knights.

There is plenty to explore in the newer part of the city too, including Archbishops Palace, the Annunciation Church and the Central Post Office.

Shopping

You'll find souvenir and gift shops in all of the towns and a wide range of international stores in Rhodes Town itself. Look out for artisan and craft shops selling island-produced ceramics and leather goods as well as locally made honey and top quality olive oil.

The Artistic Village of Contemporary Art is a family-run enterprise and stop-off for many tour groups between Rhodes Town and Lindos. They have a beautiful collection of items you won't find elsewhere on the island. It's also worth trying the Mastoras Silver Jewellery outlet in Faliraki, Vintage Wine Store in Rhodes Town and Olive Oil Factory in Archangelos.